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A benefit auction by Gavel&Block and IWantToShare Foundation aims to raise funds and bring awareness to worthy causes that contribute a positive impact to Philippine society

Gavel&Block, a subsidiary brand of Salcedo Auctions that features up and coming artists in addition to their roster of celebrated artists, together with the IWantToShare Foundation, an organization committed to supporting and providing for communities in need, is holding its special annual benefit auction this July 20th. This year’s benefit hopes to bring awareness to IWantToShare’s enduring efforts through the healing, comforting, and positive effects of art.

“This auction hopes to provide the means to raise both funds and awareness for a most worthy cause, and also to remind collectors of the transformative and life-changing powers of the arts,” shares Richie Lerma, director of Salcedo Auctions. Having worked with the Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Department of Philippine General Hospital (PGH) since 2016, the IWantToShare Foundation has been consistent in its promise in financially assisting the medical needs of children with cancer. Once again, through this special event, these young patients will be given much-needed aid.

On July 13, the recently opened flagship headquarters of Salcedo Auctions at NEX Tower, 6786 Ayala Avenue will host a special preview event. In addition to a much-anticipated viewing of the pieces on offer, guests are also encouraged to meet the child beneficiaries of PGH through a specially designed art

therapy session and program. “We believe that to those who are given much, much is also expected. As we share the same values of determination, perseverance in achieving a goal, passion to help and of finding joy in service, we have become a channel of blessings and what we get back is truly priceless,” says Sheila Bermudez-Romero, president of the IWantToShare Foundation. All pieces will remain on display until July 20 at 2pm, when the auction will be held.

Guests can expect collectible pieces from well-loved artists such as Fernando Zobel, BenCab, Arturo Luz, Juvenal Sanso, Vicente Manansala, Eduardo Castrillo, Cesar Legaspi and contemporary works from Winner Jumalon, Jigger Cruz, Daniel dela Cruz, Ramon Orlina, Justin Nuyda, and Emmanuel Garibay, among others.

“This gathering of art patrons and local artists is a testament that even a small but positive movement creates ripples of change,” explains Romero. “(This is) a dream to make a positive difference in the lives of others, especially those who are marginalized— to alleviate them of their worries and sufferings; to make them feel loved, and to see the joy on their faces and in their lives.”